Reducing Stigma Associated With COVID-19
Reducing stigma will help COVID-19 patients heal faster.
Philip (not his real name) was diagnosed with Covid-19 through contact tracing. By the time his positive result was communicated, he had already infected his family. On learning this, the landlord gave him an eviction order, arguing that other tenants would flee if his family continued to stay in the same premises. This happened in one of the counties in Kenya.
It has also been reported that a male patient committed suicide while awaiting results of his Covid-19 test. The patient used a curtain to hang himself while at an isolation ward. His dead body was discovered by doctors doing routine checks. The test result later showed that he had Covid-19.
Outbreaks,such as COVID-19, create fear and stress for everyone. When people do not know much about a disease, there is a lot of speculation. This leads to anxiety about the diseaseand social stigma. Stigma refers to one having negative attitudes and beliefs towards people, places, or things. Stigma can lead to labeling, stereotyping,and other negative behavior toward self and others. Stigma and discrimination occurs when people link a disease, such as COVID-19 with a population, community, or nationality. An individual who has tested positive for COVID-19, recovered from it, or been discharged from quarantine / home isolation is a likely to be stigmatized. This is despite the fact that anyone can contract COVID-19.
Individuals who are likely to be stigmatized due to COVID-19 include:
Stigma hurts those that it is directed to. It creates fear and anger in those that are stigmatized; and focuses on the individual(s) instead of being empathic and looking for ways to eradicate the disease. Stigma makes those that have symptoms or suspect that they have been infected to hide. Thereby, suffer in silence as symptoms get worse and the likelihood of transmission to other individuals increases.It therefore prevents individuals from adopting healthy behaviors. This means thatstigma makes it more difficult to control the spread of COVID-19.
The same people who are stigmatized are likely to face discrimination. Discriminationmay take the form of:
Stigma can negatively affect the emotional,physical and mental health of stigmatized individuals and communities.Stigmatized individuals may experience anxiety, isolation, depression, or public embarrassment. In order to help stop stigma related to COVID-19,the community needs to know the facts and share them with others in their society.
Stigma can be prevented through:
Contact DeKUT University Counselling Department for remote therapy/ sessions
Meeting URL: https://meet.google.com/gim-ktbf-ssj
Domestic Violence and COVID 19
In his message, the UN Secretary-General AntónioGuterresnoted that for many women and girls the threat of Covid-19 looms largest in their homes where they should be safest. While Lockdowns and quarantines are essential to suppressing COVID-19, many countries have documented a tremendous increase in reported cases of violence especially against women and children under lockdown.
This may be because of the high levels of anxiety and tension in households where people are living together in close proximity. Unemployment, hunger, isolation and uncertainty are some of the stressors that many Kenyan families experience.
Domestic violence takes root in power and control. Unemployment, leading to inability to provide for families and economic uncertainty has added an extra strain of pressure for many. As a result, loss of control, irritability, anger and frustration are often vented out in form of violence towards innocent family members. The length of time spent together and the proximity gives the abuser an added advantage. Emotional and psychological effects of domestic violence to the children who witness the tussle between the adults, is a reality to contend with.
Every married couple complains about each other from time to time, but when complaints change from being occasional and situationalto habitual and personal, the couple may be falling into criticism. When a complaint starts with “I feel….” It may be perceived as situational but when it begins with “you are, you don’t …..” it may sound as accusation or criticism. Couples who find themselves making a habit out of personal or global criticism, need to overcome the habit of picking on their mate’s shortcomings and work toward solutions instead. If the couple is unable to stop being critical despite their best efforts, it is wise to seek help.
According to Gender Based Violence (GBV) researchers, domestic violence increases whenever families spend time together- even on happy occasions. The current lockdowns, isolations, quarantine, restricted movement and social distancing have caused families to spend time with potential or known abusers. A slap,a punch, a kick, a forceful shove, intimidation, coercion and fear; dominance power and control, all constitute elements of domestic violence.
A surge in domestic violence is one of the many ways COVID -19 is testing communities.Physical containment and economic exploitation is another. For many girls who find themselves without income, sex for food is a plausible economic model. As a safety precaution against the virus, many middle class families are leaving the elderly to contend with hopeless financial realities.
While for some reasons in the absence of a pandemic, victims of domestic violence may choose to remain quiet about their victimization to law enforcement, the current situation poses additional barriers to reporting. One major obstacle is the absence of time away from abusers as a consequence of stay-at-home orders.
Victims may risk further and potentially more intense violence if their abusers overhear them reporting the abuse over the phone. This can deter victims both from calling police or seeking orders of protection in “virtual” courts. With the continued spread of the virus in Kenya, women, girls and children face increased and multiple challenges including physical and psychological violence related to family confinement, isolation and economic vulnerability.
The restriction and stay home orders across the globe, including Kenya, do not prescribe measures that should be taken for family set ups with ongoing domestic violence.There are other tools of abuse in addition to physical violence, which is not present in every abusive relationship. These include: isolation from friends, family and employment,strict surveillance; outlined rules for behaviour; and restrictions on access to basic necessities such as food, preferred clothing and sanitary facilities.
Early in March 2020, Hon. David Maraga the Chief Justice of Kenya indicated an increase in the number of cases reported in court by 35.8%. United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) have already predicted a calamitous surge of GBV cases; for every 3 months in lock down, 15 Million cases of GBV will be reported while 31 Million persons will experience GBV if the lock down progresses to a further 6 months.
The restrictions imposed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic are likely to make it harder forsurvivors to report abuse and seek help and for service providers to respond efficiently. Sexual and other forms of violence against women have devastating consequences such as injuries, serious physical, mental, sexual and reproductive health problems; including sexually transmitted infections, HIV and unplanned pregnancies. It is important for everyone to understand the impact of lockdown, curfews and the alcohol ban on levels of violence in our homes.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) estimates that 90% of the world’s student population will be affected by the COVID -19 pandemic as a result of the closure of the learning institutions. Many school going children including adolescent girls are now staying at home. 1.5 billion Learners so far have been affected by the pandemic with 15 Million learners affected in Kenya, half of them (7.4 Million) are girls.
It is worth noting that domestic violence can be directed to any gender. In the recent past, reports on husbands battling, negligence and harassment of boy child have been in the news headlines. Domestic violence against men is mainly experienced by men in a domestic setting, such as in marriage or cohabitation. It may also constitute a crime but in most cases men who report domestic violence are likely to face social stigma regarding their masculinity.
Partner violence against men is generally less recognized by society than partner violence against women.As a result this may further block men from reporting their situation.The stigma makes men more reluctant to report their abuse or seek help.
Socio-cultural issues such as judgmentby male peers or fear of having their masculinity questioned,society expectation of the male social role are some of the other obstacles. It is evident that women assaulting their male partners are more likely to evade arrest than males who assault their female partners.
Another form of domestic violence may arise as siblings’ rivalry when each tries to compete for attention from parents. This is natural but if not checked on it could result in fights and hatred between family members.
Contact DeKUT University Counselling Department for remote therapy/ sessions
Meeting URL: https://meet.google.com/gim-ktbf-ssj
COVID 19 & Virtual Therapy
Have you seen a therapist recently? Will virtual therapy help me?
Sometimes, it requires profound "disruption to the system" to allow in a new dimension of doing things. In the case of online therapy, the coronavirus pandemic may have done just that.
Typically, therapy sessions are done face to face. However with the new norm, the pandemic has forced therapists and clients to adopt a new mode of interactionfor therapy to remain effective.Therapistshave opted to engage clients using video-chat apps or phone calls.Remote conversations lead to effective treatment, but if this is the first online session, there are some details worth considering.
How does one make the most of remote therapy?
There are several preparations that are needed before beginning sessions. These include testing of the app or the software to be used; making sure you will have privacy during your session, and therefore limit distractions.
What happens if your therapist will not engage in remote therapy?
Your therapist may refer you to someone who can provide therapy remotely for as long as it is needed. If you don’t want to see any other therapist you can ask your therapist about books, online materials and activities that can lead to your healing and promote personal growth.
Is remote therapy effective?
Certain therapies seem to be just as effective when done virtually.
Remote therapy may be more intimate than regular therapy.
Therapy, especially long-term insight-oriented, creates a deep bond. Sharing and opening up leads to closeness. Therapists generally observe ethical guidelines, so even the most open therapist is relatively anonymous in virtual therapy compared therapists in physical therapy, creating an intimacy gradient/ difference.
Tele-therapy feels closer for many. Sharing on the telephone can be very personal. Cradling a telephone creates the sense of touch, typically which is low in physical therapy. It makes a difference whether through cellphone, a personal extension of the self, a hunched-up laptop, or a big screen with a comfortable desk.
People walking around, holding their phones high on a virtual tour
The “experiment” of therapy is less controlled than one in an office just talking, but it is more alive and rich in various ways. This is true for both patient and therapist, varying depending on how their respective spaces are set.
Tele-therapy facilitates care.
Most people do not have therapists in their area or psychiatric treatment centre. Telemedicine addresses this issue. Tele-therapy may also be cost-effective with lower overhead costs; no rent or commuting expenses, for instance.For both the client and therapist, tele-therapy may be more convenient. Many therapists, however, prefer to keep personal and professional spaces and identities separate, this might be an issue in a small city apartment without room for a home office.
You can move around
Research shows that moving around while thinking improves creativity and problem-solving capacity. This seems to be because a motor system, the nervous and muscular activity which allows us to move, is tied closely with thinking and feeling. You can apply that with virtual therapy, within reason.
Some patients may also identify they think more clearly while doing something else, though that can be a distraction. These factors should be explicitly addressed. People may be reminded of things in their homes that are important to discuss, whereas in the office they can have trouble remembering what to talk about.
Contact DeKUT University Counselling Department for remote therapy/ sessions
Meeting URL: https://meet.google.com/gim-ktbf-ssj
Coping with Bereavement during COVID-19
“He who has a why to live can bear almost anyhow” Friedrich Nietzsche. The COVID-19 pandemic has made everyone experience struggles in how life has changed. These are unprecedented times, and each person is experiencing their own loss and grief. The loss of social connection, physical mobility,friends and family members, as well as dailygeneral routine has had an impact on all of us.
“He who has a why to live can bear almost anyhow” Friedrich Nietzsche. The COVID-19 pandemic has made everyone experience struggles in how life has changed. These are unprecedented times, and each person is experiencing their own loss and grief. The loss of social connection, physical mobility,friends and family members, as well as dailygeneral routine has had an impact on all of us. Globally, restrictions including social distancing, self-isolation and travel bans have been put in place to help slow down the spread of the virus. This has meant that many people cannot spend time with their loved oneswho are in critical stages of illness. Individuals are dying in isolation. Loved ones are no longer allowed to go through the grieving rituals like spending time with the body or viewing the body as they would have done previously. Individuals can no longer hold memorial gatherings, the number of people to attend and the time taken for burials have been restricted. The order of the burial ceremony is also dictated by the Ministry Of Health guidelines.
People are dying after spending their final days in hospitals separated from their families and loved ones.Under normal circumstances, bereavement which is the experience of losing a loved oneis difficult. COVID - 19 has made grieving a much more difficult journey.This is because of the isolation, restricted movement and limited contact with family and friends.
COVID-19 has necessitated that the bereaved mournin isolation. Before the pandemic, there would be a lot of social support for those who had lost a loved one. Friends and the community would visit and condole with the family as they show their last respects to the deceased. Currently, some family members are not given an opportunity to bid the deceased farewell. Members of the family that are out of the country may not make it back in time for the funeral, given the requirements of immediate burial;the need to produce certification to show that one is COVID - 19 free before exiting one country, a fourteen day mandated quarantine on entering the country etc. This is upsetting and causes increased anxiety.
Grief causes a range of reactions which include a sense of disbelief, confusion, difficulty in thinking clearly, sadness, anger,frequent thoughts and memories of the deceased, difficulty concentrating orfocusing on the deceased and a sense of disconnection from others. It’s important to note that although these thoughts, feelings and behaviors are not pleasant, they are the body and mind’s method of adjusting to the loss, accept what has happened, and to build new meaning in one’s life. These reactions are normal, as long as an individual is able to function after a while. If not, one may need to seek the help of a professional.
Recovery is a process that will require that professionals, family, and community volunteers be innovative in ways to help people resolve their grief after the loss of their loved ones.
Coping strategies that might be helpful to a bereaved person:-
A great recommended cure for grief is to grieve. There are several things that may help memorialize the deceased. They include:-
The Directorate of Student Welfare offers our heartfelt condolences to anyone who has suffered bereavement during this difficult time.
Contact DeKUT University Counseling Department for mental health and psychosocial support for you and your children during COVID -19 pandemic.
Meeting URL: https://meet.google.com/gim-ktbf-ssj
Self-Care and COVID-19
Is self-care difficult?
Do you treat your Car better than you care for yourself?
None of us is honest enough to say that self-care is absolutely hard. Be it a health checkup, a haircut, getting to bed on time, procuring a healthy meal or going to the gym, self-care can sometimes appear like a long “to do list” that make us feel relived but instead perceive it as a burden.
We all know what we need to do to be healthy and take care of ourselves, and if we are motivated, chances are that our list of what we need to do to stay healthy grows, instead of shrinking. We know how and when we should do these things and even why they are important to us, but some days, you just don’t feel like doing what you are needed to do.
So why is self-care so hard sometimes? Why should something that is supposed to make you feel good become so exhausting?
1. Self-care is not that important.
The insidious aspect and ignorance of saying that self-care is not that important. Saying self-care does not matter. When we absorb this mindset and then start repeating it to ourselves, this is an emotional injury. This is a sign of low self-worth, feeling that our own health, growth, and healing is of no importance.
Our bodies and souls are pretty resilient. We can neglect ourselves for a long time and keep pulling ourselves along or continue to treat ourselves like an entertainment center with a trashcan.We fail to recognize the impact caused. Every little choice and action have an impact. We don’t realize what we are losing when we neglect our own health, healing and growth. I think if a person could experience six seconds of what potential they have with good self-care, they could have endless motivation after that.
2. We are told that Self-care is beingselfish
If you distort your concept of self-care to mean you disregard other people, your relationships, or the environment, that is selfish. But that is not self-care. Caring for yourself does not mean you are withdrawing from others. You deserve self-care. If your compassion doesn’t include yourself then it is incomplete.
Self-care = self-responsibility. Not selfishness
3: We don’t know how.
There’s so much misguiding information out there about nutrition, fitness, relationships, finances, and mental health. If you follow it, you can have exactly the opposite results of what you were hoping for .This can be frustrating and discouraging and can make you give up on self-care.It’s not a list of to dos.Self-care is an intention and a process of experimentation and learning, to discover what you, individually, need and want. It is completely a process of honoring yourself, in attitude and intent. It is learning how to honor you in your choices, actions, and habits.
I am going to find out how. I am going to find out what I really need and want. The statement is so self-affirming and thrilling. When you make mistakes in the process of which you will, just identify it and retrace yourself. You have learnt something about yourself, and your relationship with the world. That is what’s supposed to happen. That is how it works.
4: We confuse self-care with comfort.
Self-care is about nurturing your own health, healing, and growth.For example:Self-care means having healthy, nourishing food for yourself, while respecting your body/ individual needs.Comfort means chocolate and wine (that is whatever your comfort food of choice is).Self-care is about physical activity and exercise, in accordance to your physical needs and goals.Comfort means binge-watching of TV instead.Self-care means, being truthful with yourself about your own sources of pain and malfunction so that you can work on them.Comfort means acting as if everything is okay, and numbing out.
Life is often stressful and painful. Sometimes comfort is what you need.Self-care at times means making a choice to give out some bit of short term discomfort for the sake of genuine happiness, joy, and pleasure. Focus on happiness, joy, and pleasure, knowing that it will come to you if you keep taking good care of yourself. And keep reminding yourself that everything matters.So, combining self-care and comfort can get you back on track.
5. Effort.
Self-care demands commitment, be it getting to bed on time, planning, shopping, and preparing healthy meals, or keeping up with an exercise routine. When you are tired, and perhaps you are in need of self-care, is exactly when exerting effort for anything can feel like a burden even if you know it will help you feel better on the other side. Acknowledging this, can help you be realistic and gentle with yourself so that you can look for solutions that is fit for your energy level.
6. It is hard to make good decisions when we are tired.
Be tired enough and you will lose discipline and self control towards self-care. On the other hand, you will rush to Angry Birds, the fourth episode of your favorite Netflix series, more dessert, or some other habit-forming activity and substance. Being tired affects your decision making skills, thus you are more vulnerable to distractions and impulsivity.
When it comes to rewarding activities that stimulate our brain,it is hard to exercise moderation especially when we are tired.
Contact DeKUT University Counseling Department for mental health and psychosocial support for you and your children during COVID -19 pandemic.
Meeting URL: https://meet.google.com/gim-ktbf-ssj
COVID-19 and Spirituality
The corona virus has now spread in the whole world and has been declared a global pandemic due to the bizarrely speed in which the virus is spreading (WHO, 2020).
The virus is dynamically spreading and has greatly created social disruption and economic loss. An increasing number of people are dying daily. The elderly and the young children have been affected more in the general population and in such times of crisis, human beings seek religion to offer comfort and answers. This is because spirituality is important in health care as it gives people stability and meaning.
Although religion has being impacted negatively through cancellation of worship services and pilgrimages surrounding observances, religious leaders have endeavored to reach all faithful for spiritual nourishment. Religion has proven to be relevant and the reality is that religion and science when combined complement one another. In our country Kenya, the religious and faith based institutions have reinforced public health messages during the current pandemic. Religious authorities are well-positioned and have been able to respond and communicate information and teachings to their communities during this time crisis.
Spiritual and practical support is being given from the churches, temples mosques, and other places of worship. The religious teachings have encouraged the faithful to be kind and supportive to the other less privileged people in the community. Many of the Religious organizations are providing resources to help the community, especially the most vulnerable. Some organizations are working hand in hand with the government to ensure that children and the elderly have access to proper nutrition, healthcare and necessary medication.
Prayer services and rituals are important for people to connect with their faith and since the worship places are closed, religious leaders are using technology to reach members. Prayer services are being live-streamed through mass media: radio and television; while others are using Facebook, YouTube, online apps; all geared towards communication on devotional nourishment. During virtual religious services and meetings, people are able to connect with other professionals invited to address issues arising during this difficult period. This is really helping: inspiration through practical and spiritual information.
All this religious support has offered:
Religion may negatively affect mental health when individuals start experiencing the following:
In conclusion, faith is an important support and coping mechanism especially in a time of crisis and uncertainty. Since pastoral care and other spiritual services are an integral part of health care and daily life, Dedan Kimathi has a Chaplaincy department in the Directorate of Students welfare which caters for the needs of staff and students. Contact us if you feel overwhelmed and in need of spiritual guidance.
Engaging Children in Creative Arts Through the COVID-19 Pandemic
Do you love dancing, singing, playing an instrument perhaps, drawing? How about painting or knitting! According to Extension an innovation Centre for young adults, the creative arts, including music, can help children grow physically, socially, cognitively and emotionally.
How confident is your child, are they able to engage in conversations and clearly express themselves? The creative arts interestingly can reflect children’s deep emotions and feelings as opposed to being silent. A small singing session or painting activities can change a child’s gloomy mood to a happy one.
With the current state of less movement, social distancing, and online classes as thenew normal, a child’s brain could easily get bored from the same routine engagement. How then can they be kept motivated through these unforeseen circumstances? First, it is important to break their usual predictable schedules by engaging them in the process of creative thinking. Have them play a guitar, a recorder, a piano , a flute , percussion instruments, allow them to sing, drum their way through the usual routine. Those who cannot play instruments allow them to draw, paint, recite a poem and perform a skit that would eventually jog their mind creatively and innovatively.
These creative activities focus more on the process than the end products. It will teach children how to be patient a virtue they certainly need to inculcate at such a time. Engaging in creative activities is in itself a learning process too as earlier indicated and thus still keeps the child in school, informally. Gwendolyn Rice (April 2020), reiterates the significance of creative arts now as being as important as ever. Susan Cook a Director of UW-Madison’s Mead Witter School of Music, emphasizes that engaging with the arts provides solace, awakens curiosity and allows us to be in the moments with our thoughts and feelings, an important process and experience that our children currently need.
The Psychological effects of Music in Stress Reduction and Management
Prolonged exposure to stress is associated with poor mental health. An individual’s experience with stress arises when one perceives a threat from the environment as going beyond or exceeding his or her coping resources and putting to danger his or her well-being. Unending chronic stress can cause andaggravate serious health conditions including mental health illnesses such as depression, panic and personality disorders. Cardiovascular disease including high blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythms and stroke. This has led to an increase in global disease burden as well as substantial financial involvement in management thereby creating a heavy economic burden on countries.
As a result, the evolvement of cost effective stress prevention or management strategies have been identified asa worthwhile venture. The use of music has been identified as a collective resource for the regulation of moods, emotions, and stress, and has been widely used for the regulation of self-affect (Balthazar et al., 2019). When faced with high levels of stress, individuals have been found to turn to music. Studies indicate that several psychological, biochemical and neurological functions are involved in processing and responding to music. Music has been shown to decrease the so called “stress” hormone, cortisol, increase ‘feel good” serotonin levels as well as activate brain areas with reward thereby enabling a quicker autonomic nervous system after exposure to a stressor ( Stewart et al, 2019). Further research has shown that listening to music has the capacity to initiate a wide array of cognitive processes in the brain as well as modify anxiety levels. Overall, in several studies, music has been found to lower perceived psychological stress, increased coping strategies, as well as modified levels in perceived relaxation.
In conclusion, we as parents, siblings, guardians, care givers and friends of our children should also strive to be actively involved in the creative activities too, in this way we will get to connect, collaborate, tolerate and understand better how to support our children through the pandemic era. Stay creative, be innovative and afford a smile in every engagement!
Contact DeKUT University Counseling Department for mental health and psychosocial support for you and your children during COVID -19 pandemic.
Meeting URL: https://meet.google.com/gim-ktbf-ssj
It’s easy to lose hope and brood over the negative side effects of any event, especially when as a community we’re battling a global pandemic. It is important to know that a crisis is a time of great uncertainty and anxiety, but is also a time when new options become possible.
There is already evidence emerging that although the COVID-19 pandemic will affect us all, it will affect us in markedly different ways. Families with dependent children are likely to be adversely affected by the financial, emotional and physical implications of the pandemic and resultant lockdown. This is especially acute for families living in poverty.There are, and will continue to be, clear effects of the COVID-19 on children’s education, social life and physical and mental health. For children in key development stages, such as the very young and those in adolescence, disruption of many months will have a larger impact on social Development.Across much of the world, schools are closed and families are largely restricted to their homes. The associated uncertainty and anxiety is a real concern, with disruptions to children’s education as well as to their time with friends for exploration and play.
Families are struggling with the additional costs of raising children during the pandemic, most notably resulting from schoolsclosure and the subsequent loss of financial and social support. Families who were already living in poverty before the pandemic may now be struggling even more, whether because of the additional costs of having the whole family at home, all day, every day, or because of income shocks caused by the scaled down or total loss of paid employment. Some families will be pushed into poverty as a result of the pandemic – perhaps for the first time – who will face new struggles that they may not have had to tackle previously.
The challenges faced by families around ill-health and caring responsibilities linked to COVID-19 will not be felt evenly.However, it is important to note that the virus does not respect any ethnic group, race, gender or status. There is a greater risk of mental health problems in children and adults. Intervention and support, such as psychological therapies for parents, would be transformative during this period.
Confinement to home seems to lead to a rise in domestic violence. Children experiencing or witnessing violence in their homes are at a much higher risk of Psychological difficulties in their lives.
In terms of food insecurity, adults with young children are among the groups hardest hit by COVID-19. A combination of school closures, food shortages and the compromised availability of support from Government agencies create a perfect storm for families on a low-income.
Family spirituality has also been highly affected.Changes in routine have led to the removal of usual support systems that help our families with their mental and spiritual framework. Spirituality and religion offers help for dealing with anxiousness during crises like COVID-19. Families need to come up with spiritual coping mechanisms to ensure that the pandemic doesn’t drain their faith. Some of these could be:
Model good coping behaviors
A family can be less anxious by working on its own anxiety. For some, this might include taking meditations, Bible study/spiritual reading, doing exercises, or getting involved in mindfulness/ charity or similar activities. Whatever a parent does for coping, will potentially benefit the family since they are influenced his/her aura of calm.Music, spiritual messages and spiritual direction are just a few other options to help the family better cope with COVID-19 anxiousness.
Sharing during meals
Asking probing questions like "What three good things that happened today or this week?" The responses often bring vibrant communication filled with laughter. The theme is to celebrate the good and set the tone for the entire meal time. This sharing can be extended to Christian groups online. This will enhance spiritual connectedness and create an avenue where members of a Religious/Christian community can share their distress.
Carry forward lessons learned during COVID-19.
COVID-19 will be remembered for a long time, and how we coped with it will be etched into our memory. Every familycould be feeling a lot of anxiety right now, but it is worth reflecting what can be learnt in this crisis for present and future coping. This is also a period when individuals have an opportunity to reflect on their faith and individually answer to questions such as: what is the driving force behind one’s faith, are there alternative ways of worship etc.
Need to connect virtually poses a challenge to many low income families due to extra costs. Social distancing means we are trying to communicate via Skype, Zoom, or Google Hangout, often managing caring responsibilities and the reality that people’s working capacity may change in unexpected ways and at short notice. We need to find new ways of connecting virtually to accommodate even those who are disadvantaged in one way or another
Despite the challenges associated with COVID-19, there have some positive effects experienced by families across the board:
Genuine Relationships build-up
The COVID-19 situation has positively impacted the way individuals emote and maintain relationships. There is more time spent with family and better work plan. As life slowed down, people have found ways to stay connected with others, even if it’s virtually. Reconnect with your loved ones and retrospect.
Lifestyle Changes with improved Hygiene
Being hygienic is no longer just a good habit, but the very skill you need for survival. These recent times have made us all aware of how to do that more hygienically - From shaking hands to other greetings gestures, we all have had a lifestyle change for the good. We’re going to remember to cover our mouths when we cough and to clean and sanitize our hands.
Digitalized Education
The pandemic had posed a threat to the whole education system. Schools, universities, and colleges have been shut down. Educational Institutions have found a way to overcome this immensely challenging series of events. Classes have begun again, thanks to technology.Online classes have become the new norm for educational institutions and it has come with a few benefits too. Moreover, parents will get first-hand knowledge about how classes are taught and can directly understand how their children perceive concepts. As the online education system grows, we can expect an increase in the reach and accessibility of education within every section of the society.
For every low, there’s a high and it’s true that even this current scenario has a silver lining to it. We are going to survive this and when we do, it’s a different world that’s waiting for us.Now is the time to plan for the future we want.
Contact DeKUT University Counseling Department for mental health and psychosocial support for you and your children during COVID -19 pandemic
Meeting URL: https://meet.google.com/gim-ktbf-ssj
Managing Fear and Anxiety During COVID-19 Pandemic
Globally, the coronavirus pandemic has raised fear and anxiety levels considerably. It is normal to be anxious and fearful during the pandemic. Many people are fearful for their health and the well-being of the most vulnerable members of the society.
The vulnerable members include those who are under 13 years and over 58 years of age, and those with severe medical conditions. Individuals who work in low-paying jobs, and positions that do not provide sick leave or allow space for social distancing are also vulnerable. The impact of the virus has been severe in some countries where many of us have close relatives and friends.
In addition to anxiety about the spreading of the disease, there are negative financial repercussions of having to take time off of work as a result of the scaling down due to the pandemic. Some people have lost their jobs and fear the worst that could happen which is a global recession.
In an attempt to curb the spread of the virus, experts advise people to practice social distancing and to isolate themselves thereby reducing intimate person to person contact. These practices are essential from a public health perspective, yet they can have anegative psychological impact.
Social isolation whether in the homes or under quarantine conditions can trigger feelings of boredom, loneliness, anger, depression, and even suicidal ideation. These measures may lead to increased tension in homes, thus exacerbating the cases of domestic violence.
To promote the holistic wellbeing of an individual, one needs to take action at the individual, family, community, and societal levels. Below are some practical ways of doing so:-
Although fear and anxiety are normal reactions to the pandemic, should one experience abnormally high levels and cannot cope they need to seek psychological help.
Contact DeKUT University Counseling Department for mental health and psychosocial support for you and your children during COVID -19 pandemic
Meeting URL: https://meet.google.com/gim-ktbf-ssj
Mental Healthcare during COVID-19
The COVID -19 pandemic is new and therefore there is no prior knowledge about it that can be used as a reference point for its eradication. It is unpredictable and ambiguous. It is a disaster; a natural catastrophe that causes great loss of life. It is unique in that the threat (virus) cannot be seen with the naked eye.
These characteristics, as well as the need for social isolation, have led to an increase in anxiety in the community. The reactions to the pandemic have ranged from anger, fear, denial, confusion, restlessness and depressed mood. There is also a sense of loss; loss of control; loss of income; loss of freedom of movement, etc. The increased insecurity further aggravates the anxiety.
According to Elizabeth Kubler – Ross these are normal emotions that occur in the change curve as a result of a dramatic life-changing situation like COVID -19. The final stage of this curve is acceptance, during which one begins to employ coping mechanisms. One is receptive to new information and gets into a state of growth. This helps to us to resume life in ‘the ‘new normal’; accept realities and work towards increased productivity.
General information for coping with negative emotions during the pandemic:-
For those who are suspected to have COVID-19 and have been quarantined or are in social isolation, provision of adequate care is required. These individuals need to be encouraged to have a positive mindset which will help in their recovery if found to have the virus. While in isolation, encourage contact with family and friends to share their experience and maintain the feelings of connectedness; read, watch movies and listen to motivational talks online.
The high- risk group which include the elderly, those with pre-existing conditions need to be encouraged to stay away from crowds, eat well and exercise regularly. This group requires to be checked on regularly therefore scheduled calls are very important.
Children will be anxious during such periods because they can sense that ‘things are not normal’. Inform them about what is going on in a language that is appropriate for their age. Answer their questions truthfully in a language they understand. Instil hope and establish a routine for them while at home. Signs that a child may be affected emotionally include changes in appetite, sleep, behaviour and regression to a previous developmental stage like bedwetting for someone who had stopped. Besides, they may be ‘rude’ and more clinging than usual.
In adolescents, social isolation can easily lead to loneliness which may trigger mental health symptoms. Let them express themselves and ask how you can support them. Allow them ‘me’ time, explain what is happening and normalise their feelings. Adolescents derive most of their social support from friends and peers. It is therefore important to keep them connected to their friends through virtual platforms like zoom where they can interact. Positive interaction using forums for church/ religious activities, painting competitions, karaoke, trivia, etc can be established. The developmentally delayed, shy, or children and adolescents with unique environmental circumstances need special attention. Parents/ caregivers could search online for communities that they can reach to help engage their children.
Individuals working from home could practice self- care by maintaining a routine similar to that they would have had in the office which involves taking breaks when appropriate.
Finally, it is important to reduce stigma and discrimination towards those who have suffered COVID -19 or been quarantined. This will enable those infected get appropriate healthcare and reduce transmission rates. Individuals should strictly to adhere to the guidelines set by the Ministry of Health / WHO.
Those who still experience emotional problems despite the coping mechanism provided are advised to seek individual, group or couple counselling. Some of the institutions that offer psychological support are:-
Parenting Children and COVID-19
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, a lot has happened worldwide. The world has witnessedunfathomable suffering in adults and children. The pandemic has been declared a human, economic and social crisis (WHO, 2020). The coronavirus has attacked societies at the core.
Previously, it was reported that children have some natural immunity to covid-19 and that if they got infected, the disease would be mild.
However, evidence shows that this is not the case. Coronavirus affects children and families with far-reaching effects. Individuals have experienced financial challenges as a result of business closure or scaling down. The loss of income has made life difficult for parents, as they struggle to care for their children and make ends meet.The whole world is bustling with worry, uncertainty and questions; how long will the pandemic last? What will our lives be like once the pandemic is over? How many of us will survive the pandemic?
Children’s lives have been turned upside down. As a result of the lockdowns and curfews, they cannot go to school, spend time with friends, or even visit playgrounds like they used to do. They are thereforelikely to experiencefear, worry and anxiety. To them, COVID-19 appears to be a phenomenal issue that everyone is talking about and has placed many restrictions that never used to be in place; wearing masks, social distancing, having temperatures checked,hand washing and sanitizing. Their lives have changed drastically. Additionally, some are old enough to learn through the media that people may die due to COVID – 19 infection. This increases their anxiety about the possibility of death occurring in their families, being put under quarantine, isolation or hospitalization; issues that they may not fully understand.
Children no longer have the structured life and stimulation that was provided by the different environments that they were exposed to. They have fewer opportunities to be with their friends and get the social support that is essential for healthy psychological and social development. Furthermore, having children at home may place them at heightened risk of child abuse. They may also witness increased incidences of interpersonal violence in a home that is not safe. These are issues of great concern to parents. Recently, there have been increased reports in the mainstream as well as in the social media of abuse against children, teenage pregnancies etc; which can be emotionally draining.
To alleviate the aligned worry, fear and stress,below are five simple tips that could work for you and your children:-
Finally, be alert to signs of stress and anxiety in your children.Should you feel need for more support: contact DeKUT University Counseling Department for mental health and psychosocial support for you and your children during COVID -19 pandemic.
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“I hope we will be better people when all of this is over.”
Silvia, Australia
